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Contradictions Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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contradictions

[ˌkɒn.trəˈdɪk.ʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in logic

A combination of statements, ideas, or features of a situation that are opposed to one another.

Synonyms

conflict, inconsistency, opposition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contradictions

Used when referring to statements or ideas that are directly opposed to one another, indicating a lack of harmony or agreement. Often used when pointing out logical discrepancies or opposing views.

  • The author's argument is full of contradictions.
  • There are several contradictions between the witness's statements.
inconsistency

Used to describe a lack of uniformity or steadiness in a series of actions, statements, or qualities. It highlights fluctuations or variations that deviate from a standard or expected pattern.

  • There's an inconsistency in his alibi that raises questions.
  • Her work suffers from inconsistency, sometimes brilliant, sometimes mediocre.
opposition

Used to describe resistance or dissent, expressed in action or argument. It can refer to political contenders, groups resisting change, or any party that stands against another.

  • The opposition to the new law was vocal and widespread.
  • He faced opposition from his colleagues on the new policy.
conflict

Used to describe a serious disagreement or argument, typically a prolonged one. It can refer to personal disputes, wars, or any situation where opposing forces clash. This term often implies tension and hostility.

  • The conflict between the two countries lasted for years.
  • Their conflict over the project led to heated arguments.

Examples of usage

  • His actions and words were full of contradictions.
  • The existence of contradictions in the theory led to its rejection.
Context #2 | Noun

in literature

A situation or statement that is opposed to one another or inconsistent with itself.

Synonyms

antithesis, incongruity, paradox.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contradictions

Used when two statements, ideas, or actions are opposed to each other, making it impossible for both to be true at the same time.

  • His actions are full of contradictions; he says he cares about the environment but drives a gas-guzzling truck.
  • The witness's testimony was filled with contradictions, making their account unreliable.
incongruity

Used when something does not fit well with the surrounding elements, creating a sense of strangeness or inconsistency.

  • The incongruity of the luxurious hotel in such a poor neighborhood was striking.
  • There is an incongruity between his humorous speech and the serious tone of the event.
paradox

Used to describe a situation, statement, or idea that seems self-contradictory or absurd but may still be true. Often found in philosophy and literature.

  • The paradox of their relationship is that they fight all the time but are deeply in love.
  • It's a paradox that the more you learn, the more you realize how little you know.
antithesis

Used to describe something that is the direct opposite of another thing. Often found in discussions about comparison or contrast.

  • Her carefree lifestyle is the antithesis of his meticulous planning.
  • The book presents the antithesis of our current understanding of history.

Examples of usage

  • The character's behavior in the story reveals contradictions in his personality.
  • The author used contradictions to create tension in the plot.
Context #3 | Noun

in everyday language

A lack of harmony between people or elements in a situation.

Synonyms

confusion, disagreement, discrepancy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contradictions

Use this word when discussing situations involving two or more statements or ideas that cannot all be true because they cancel each other out.

  • His statements were full of contradictions, making it hard to believe him.
  • The scientist's new theory is in direct contradiction to the established principles.
discrepancy

Use this word when talking about a difference or inconsistency between two things that should be the same, often used in formal, technical, or professional contexts.

  • The accountant found a discrepancy in the financial report.
  • There is a discrepancy between the two sets of data.
disagreement

This term is used when people have different opinions or do not agree on a specific topic, often used in discussions, debates, or arguments.

  • There was a disagreement between the team members about the project deadline.
  • We had a disagreement over the rules of the game.
confusion

This word is suitable when referring to a state of uncertainty or lack of understanding.

  • There was a lot of confusion about the new office policies.
  • The instructions were so complicated that they caused confusion among the participants.

Examples of usage

  • There are contradictions between what she says and what she does.
  • The contradictions in their opinions led to conflicts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • The principle of non-contradiction states that contradictory statements cannot both be true at the same time, a key concept in logical reasoning.
  • Philosopher Aristotle emphasized this principle in his works, underpinning much of classical logic and debate.
  • Contradictions can prompt critical thinking and deeper discussion, often challenging our understanding of truth.

Psychology

  • Cognitive dissonance occurs when people hold two contradictory beliefs, leading to discomfort that they may solve by changing their attitudes or beliefs.
  • People often experience contradictions in personal beliefs versus actions, highlighting the complexity of human behavior.
  • Identifying contradictions in one's thoughts can lead to growth and better alignment between beliefs and actions.

Literature

  • Many authors use contradictions to create tension in a story, forcing characters to confront their conflicting desires.
  • Irony, a form of contradiction, plays a crucial role in literature, revealing hidden truths through juxtaposition.
  • Famous literary figures like Shakespeare often explored themes of contradiction, highlighting the duality of human nature.

Science

  • In scientific debates, contradictions can lead to breakthrough discoveries, where resolving disagreements contributes to new theories.
  • Quantum physics reveals inherent contradictions in how particles behave, challenging classical understandings of reality.
  • The process of peer review often exposes contradictions in research findings, promoting refinement and accuracy in science.

Pop Culture

  • Artists often embrace contradictions in their work, reflecting societal complexities and emotional depth, as seen in many song lyrics.
  • In film and television, characters frequently embody contradictions, making them relatable and dynamic, such as heroes with flaws.
  • Social media can amplify contradictions, with users presenting idealized versions of themselves that clash with reality.

Origin of 'contradictions'

The word 'contradiction' originated from the Latin word 'contradictio', which means 'speaking against'. The concept of contradictions has been studied in various fields such as logic, philosophy, and literature. In logic, contradictions refer to statements that cannot both be true at the same time. In literature, contradictions are often used to create complexity and intrigue in characters and plots. The idea of contradictions has been a subject of debate and analysis throughout history, highlighting the complexity of human thought and behavior.

See also: contradiction, contradictorily, contradictory.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,932 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.